OUR SERVICES
Partner Visa
Our dedicated team specializes in Partner Visas, including Onshore and Offshore Partner Visas (Subclasses 820/801 and 309/100) and the Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300). We are committed to guiding you and your partner through every step of the migration process, ensuring a smooth journey towards building your life together in Australia.
Partner Visa Categories
1. Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)
For couples residing in Australia, the Onshore Partner Visa allows the applicant to stay while their visa is processed.
Subclass 820 (Temporary): Grants temporary residency, permitting the applicant to live, work, and study in Australia while awaiting the permanent visa decision.
Subclass 801 (Permanent): After a minimum of two years from the initial application, if the relationship is ongoing and genuine, the applicant may be eligible for permanent residency.
2. Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100)
Designed for couples where the applicant is outside Australia at the time of application.
Subclass 309 (Provisional): Allows the applicant to enter and stay in Australia temporarily while the permanent visa is processed.
Subclass 100 (Permanent): Granted after a minimum of two years from the initial application, contingent upon the continuation of the genuine relationship.
3. Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)
For engaged couples planning to marry in Australia.
This temporary visa permits the applicant to enter Australia, marry their Australian partner within nine months, and subsequently apply for a Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801).
Key Considerations for a Successful Application
Eligibility Criteria
- Relationship Status: Applicants must be married to, or in a de facto relationship with, an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. De facto relationships typically require evidence of at least 12 months of cohabitation unless registered under state or territory law.
- Genuine and Continuing Relationship: Evidence must demonstrate a sincere and ongoing partnership.
- Character Requirements: Both partners must meet character standards, including police clearances.
Supporting Documentation
- Relationship Evidence: Photos, joint travel itineraries, shared financial commitments, and social acknowledgments.
- Financial Evidence: Proof of shared financial responsibilities, such as joint bank accounts or leases.
- Character Evidence: References from friends, family members, or employers attesting to the relationship’s authenticity.
- Health and Character Certificates: Medical examinations and police clearances as required.
Application Process
- Online Application: Submit through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount portal.
- Supporting Documents: Upload all necessary supporting documents, including relationship evidence, financial proof, and health and character certificates.
- Biometric Information: Attend appointments as required for fingerprinting and photographs.
Processing Times
Processing times for Partner Visa applications can vary depending on various factors, including the completeness of your application and current demand. It’s always recommended to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information on processing times. In some cases, the wait may extend to several months, so it’s important to plan ahead and be patient.
Additional Costs
- Visa Application Fee: Fees apply and may vary depending on the visa subclass. The current fee can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Health Checks: Costs associated with medical examinations.
- Translation Costs: If any of your documents are not in English, you will need to have them professionally translated, which may add to the overall costs.
Temporary Visa (Subclass 820/309)
Grants temporary residency while awaiting the outcome of the permanent visa application.
Relationship Changes
Life is unpredictable, and sometimes relationships change during the visa application process. If your relationship breaks down while your application is being processed, it’s important to notify the Department of Home Affairs as soon as possible. While this may affect your visa application, there are exceptions in cases of family violence or if you have children with your partner.
Regular Updates and Communication
Once you’ve submitted your application, it’s essential to keep track of its progress through your ImmiAccount. The Department of Home Affairs may request additional information, so be sure to respond promptly and provide any further documents required.
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we take pride in our 100% success rate in handling Partner Visa cases. Our approach combines professional expertise with heartfelt dedication, as we find immense joy in reuniting partners and helping them navigate the complexities of migration law. Your love story is important to us, and we are here to ensure it continues to flourish in Australia.
Note: For the most current information and specific requirements, always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website.
Parent Visa
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we understand the deep bond between parents and their children, and we are here to help you bring your family closer together in Australia. Our Parent Visa services are designed to assist Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens in sponsoring their parents to join them in Australia. We specialize in a range of Parent Visas, including the Parent Visa (Subclass 103), Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804), and Contributory Parent Visas (Subclass 173/143).
Parent Visa (Subclass 103) allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia as permanent residents. However, due to high demand and limited visa places, the waiting period for this visa can be quite long.
Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) is available to parents who are old enough to receive an age pension in Australia and allows them to live permanently in Australia. This visa has similar eligibility requirements to the Subclass 103 visa, with the added condition that the applicant must be onshore (in Australia) when applying.
Contributory Parent Visas (Subclass 173/143) are ideal for those who want a faster processing time. The Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) grants permanent residency, while the Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 173) allows parents to stay temporarily in Australia before applying for the permanent Subclass 143 visa. These visas require a higher application fee but offer the benefit of significantly shorter waiting times.
Applying for a Parent Visa involves complex eligibility criteria, including the Balance of Family Test, health and character requirements, and assurance of support. Our team at Maryam Migration Lawyers is highly experienced in navigating these complexities and will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that all necessary documentation and evidence are provided.
We know how important it is to reunite families, and we approach every case with the dedication and care it deserves. Our expertise, combined with a personalized approach, ensures that your application is handled with the utmost attention to detail. Let us help you bring your parents to Australia and strengthen the bonds that matter most.
General Skilled Migration
Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is designed to attract highly skilled individuals who can contribute to the Australian economy. If you have the skills and qualifications that Australia needs, our team at Maryam Migration Lawyers is here to help you navigate the complex process and secure your future in Australia. We specialize in all aspects of General Skilled Migration, including the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491).
Categories of General Skilled Migration Visas:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): This visa is for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or territory. It allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): This visa requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. It grants permanent residency and allows you to live and work in the nominating state or territory.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): This visa is for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia. It requires state or territory nomination or sponsorship by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area. This visa is a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting specific conditions.
Skilled Points Calculation:
The GSM program operates on a points-based system. Points are awarded based on several factors, including age, English language proficiency, skilled employment experience, educational qualifications, Australian study requirements, and more. The minimum points required to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) is 65, but higher points increase your chances of receiving an invitation.
Skill Occupation Assessment:
Before applying for a skilled visa, you must have your skills assessed by a relevant Australian assessing authority to ensure they meet the standards for your nominated occupation. This assessment is a critical step in the process and must be completed before submitting your EOI.
Expression of Interest (EOI) Submission:
An Expression of Interest is submitted through the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system. The EOI is not a visa application but a way to express your interest in applying for a skilled visa. Based on your EOI, you may be invited to apply for a visa if you meet the criteria and have competitive points.
State or Territory Nomination:
For the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas, you must receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory. Each state or territory has its own list of in-demand occupations and specific requirements. Our team will help you navigate these requirements and secure the necessary nomination.
Visa Application Lodgement:
Once you receive an invitation to apply based on your EOI, you can lodge your visa application. This step involves submitting comprehensive documentation, including your skills assessment, evidence of English proficiency, proof of employment, educational qualifications, and other relevant documents.
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we understand that navigating the GSM program can be complex and challenging. Our expertise ensures that every aspect of your application is handled with precision, from calculating your points to lodging your visa application. Let us help you take the next step toward a successful migration journey and secure your future in Australia.
Employer Sponsored Visas
We guide both employers and skilled workers through the Employer Sponsored Visa process, helping businesses fill critical skill gaps and individuals achieve their goal of working and living in Australia. Employer Sponsored Visas are designed to allow Australian businesses to sponsor skilled workers from overseas to fill roles that cannot be filled by the local workforce. We provide expert assistance across all key categories, including the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186), and the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494).
Categories of Employer Sponsored Visas:
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482): This visa allows Australian employers to address labor shortages by bringing in skilled workers from overseas. The TSS visa is divided into three streams:
Short-Term Stream: For occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), with a visa duration of up to two years (or up to four years if an international trade obligation applies).
Medium-Term Stream: For occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), with a visa duration of up to four years and a pathway to permanent residency.
Labour Agreement Stream: For employers who have a Labour Agreement with the Australian government to hire workers in occupations not on the standard skilled occupation lists.
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186): This is a permanent visa for skilled workers who are nominated by their employer. The ENS visa has three streams:
Direct Entry Stream: For workers who have an occupation on the MLTSSL and meet the skills and qualifications requirements.
Temporary Residence Transition Stream: For workers who hold a TSS visa and have worked for their employer for at least three years in the same occupation.
Labour Agreement Stream: For workers sponsored by an employer through a Labour Agreement.
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494): This visa allows regional employers to sponsor skilled workers for positions in regional Australia. The Subclass 494 visa is valid for five years and provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after meeting specific conditions.
Key Steps in the Employer Sponsored Visa Process:
Sponsorship Approval: The first step is for the employer to become an approved sponsor. This involves demonstrating that the business is legally established and actively operating, has a good business record, and meets other sponsorship requirements.
Nomination: Once sponsorship is approved, the employer must nominate a skilled position that fits within the approved occupation lists. This includes providing evidence that the position is genuine, and that it meets the market salary rates and other specific requirements.
Visa Application: After the nomination is approved, the worker can apply for the visa. This step involves proving that they meet the relevant skills, qualifications, and English language requirements, as well as providing evidence of their work experience and any other necessary documentation.
Transition to Permanent Residency: For TSS visa holders, there is a pathway to permanent residency through the ENS visa after meeting specific work and residence conditions. This is a significant benefit for both employers and workers, providing stability and long-term planning opportunities.
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we understand the complexities involved in the Employer Sponsored Visa process. Our experienced team will work closely with both employers and employees to ensure all requirements are met, making the process as smooth and efficient as possible. We take pride in helping businesses thrive by connecting them with the talent they need, and helping skilled workers achieve their dreams of building a life in Australia.
Tourist Stream Visas
We are proud to have a 100% success rate in securing Tourist Stream Visas for our clients. The Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600) allows individuals to visit Australia for tourism, family visits, or other short-term purposes. Whether you’re planning a holiday, visiting loved ones, or exploring Australia’s rich culture and natural beauty, we ensure that your visa application is handled with the utmost care and precision.
Our team understands the importance of providing accurate documentation and compelling evidence to support your application. We guide you through every step of the process, from preparing the necessary documents to submitting a strong application that maximizes your chances of approval. With our experience and dedication, we make the process seamless, so you can focus on enjoying your time in Australia.
Protection Visas
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we understand the profound importance of safety and security for individuals and families facing persecution in their home countries. Our team is committed to assisting those in need of protection by guiding them through the complex process of applying for a Protection Visa in Australia. We approach every case with sensitivity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to upholding human rights.
Protection Visas in Australia, including the Subclass 866 Protection Visa, are available to individuals who are in Australia and seeking asylum due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion. This visa allows eligible applicants to remain in Australia permanently, offering the chance to live, work, and study in safety.
The process of applying for a Protection Visa involves several critical steps:
Eligibility Assessment: Our experienced lawyers will assess your situation to determine your eligibility for a Protection Visa. This includes evaluating your fear of persecution and whether it meets the criteria under the Refugee Convention or Australia’s complementary protection obligations.
Application Preparation: We work closely with you to gather all necessary documentation, including detailed personal statements, evidence of persecution, and any other relevant information that supports your claim.
Submission and Representation: Once your application is prepared, we submit it on your behalf and provide ongoing representation throughout the process. This includes liaising with the Department of Home Affairs and, if necessary, representing you in tribunal or court hearings.
Support and Guidance: Throughout the application process, we offer continuous support and guidance, ensuring that you fully understand your rights and the progress of your case. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the reassurance you need during this challenging time.
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we are deeply committed to helping individuals find safety and protection in Australia. Our expertise in handling Protection Visa applications, combined with our compassionate approach, ensures that your case is given the attention and care it deserves. We stand by your side every step of the way, working tirelessly to secure a safe and stable future for you and your loved ones.
Student Visa Services
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping students from around the world achieve their educational dreams in Australia. Whether you’re looking to study at a prestigious university, gain vocational training, or explore pathways to permanent residency, our team is here to guide you through the entire process of securing a Student Visa (Subclass 500) and beyond.
Choosing the Right Course and University:
Selecting the right course and university is crucial to your success in Australia. Our experienced advisors will work with you to understand your academic goals, career aspirations, and personal preferences. We help you identify courses that align with your interests and future career plans, ensuring that your study experience is both rewarding and strategic. Whether you’re aiming for a degree in business, engineering, health sciences, or any other field, we provide tailored advice to match you with the best educational institutions across Australia.
PR Pathway Advice:
For many international students, studying in Australia is not just about gaining a world-class education—it’s also a potential pathway to permanent residency. We provide expert guidance on how to choose courses and career paths that can enhance your eligibility for General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas, such as the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190). Our team stays up-to-date with the latest immigration policies and skilled occupation lists to ensure you have the best chance of achieving your long-term goals.
English Language Requirements:
Meeting the English language requirement is a key component of your Student Visa application. Depending on your course and educational institution, you may need to provide evidence of your English proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. We offer advice on which tests are accepted, the required scores, and how to prepare effectively. If needed, we can also assist you in finding English language courses to improve your proficiency before starting your studies.
Comprehensive Support:
From the moment you decide to study in Australia, we are here to support you every step of the way. Our services include:
Visa Application Assistance: We handle all aspects of your Student Visa application, ensuring that it is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
Health Insurance Guidance: We advise on the necessary Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) that you must maintain during your stay in Australia.
Pre-Departure and Arrival Support: We provide you with important information and tips to help you prepare for life in Australia, including accommodation options, cultural insights, and more.
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we are committed to making your journey to Australia as smooth and successful as possible. With our expert advice and personalized support, you can focus on your studies and enjoy everything that Australia has to offer, knowing that your future is in safe hands.
Citizenship
Citizenship is the legal status that establishes an individual’s membership in a sovereign state or nation. It is a significant legal relationship between an individual and the state, granting the individual specific rights and imposing particular duties.
Rights and Privileges of Citizenship
Citizenship confers a variety of rights, including the right to live and work in the country, participate in its political processes (such as voting and running for public office), and access public services like education and healthcare. It also provides protection under the country’s laws, ensuring that citizens are safeguarded by the state both at home and abroad.
Responsibilities of Citizenship
With the rights of citizenship come important responsibilities. Citizens are expected to obey the country’s laws, pay taxes, and contribute to the community’s well-being. This can include participating in civic duties, such as serving on a jury or engaging in community service. These responsibilities are vital to maintaining a functioning and just society.
Pathways to Citizenship
Citizenship can be acquired in several ways:
By Birth: Automatically granted to individuals born within a country’s territory or to parents who are citizens of that country.
By Descent: Granted to individuals born abroad to citizen parents, depending on the country’s laws.
By Marriage: Some countries offer a pathway to citizenship for foreign nationals who marry a citizen.
By Naturalization: A legal process in which a non-citizen can acquire citizenship after fulfilling specific criteria, such as residency requirements, language proficiency, and knowledge of the country’s laws and culture.
Dual Citizenship
Many countries allow dual or multiple citizenships, enabling individuals to be citizens of more than one nation simultaneously. This status provides flexibility and broader rights in multiple countries, although it may also involve navigating the responsibilities and legal obligations of each nation.
Significance of Citizenship
Citizenship is more than just a legal formality—it is a cornerstone of national identity and civic participation. It binds individuals to a nation, creating a shared sense of community, values, and responsibility. Citizenship also plays a crucial role in the individual’s sense of belonging and contributes to the overall stability and development of society.
Why It Matters
Citizenship defines a person’s legal standing within a country, ensuring access to rights, responsibilities, and the protection of the state. It represents a mutual commitment between the individual and the nation, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
This version emphasizes the importance of citizenship, the rights and responsibilities it entails, and the various pathways to acquiring it. It’s tailored to provide clear and accessible information for website visitors seeking to understand the concept of citizenship.
Resident Return Visa (RRV)
The Resident Return Visa (RRV) is an essential visa category for Australian permanent residents and former citizens who wish to maintain their status and return to Australia after traveling abroad. This visa allows you to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident, ensuring that your residency status is preserved.
Who Needs a Resident Return Visa?
If you are an Australian permanent resident, your ability to return to Australia after traveling overseas is contingent on holding a valid travel facility, which is usually tied to your permanent visa. However, these travel facilities are generally valid for only five years from the date of visa grant. After this period, you will need to obtain an RRV to continue traveling in and out of Australia while maintaining your permanent residency status.
Former Australian citizens who have renounced or lost their citizenship may also need an RRV if they wish to return to Australia and re-establish permanent residency.
Types of Resident Return Visas
Subclass 155 – Resident Return Visa
This is the most common RRV. It allows you to travel to and from Australia as a permanent resident. It is typically granted for up to five years, depending on your circumstances.
Subclass 157 – Resident Return Visa
This visa is granted for a shorter period, typically for three months, and is usually issued in more specific or exceptional circumstances.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Resident Return Visa, you generally need to meet the following criteria:
Permanent Resident Status: You must hold, or have held, permanent residency in Australia.
Residence Requirement: For a five-year RRV, you must have lived in Australia for at least two of the last five years as a permanent resident.
Significant Ties to Australia: If you do not meet the residence requirement, you may still be eligible if you can demonstrate significant ties to Australia, such as business, cultural, or family connections
Why Choose Us?
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we understand the importance of maintaining your residency status. Our experienced team can guide you through the application process, ensuring that all requirements are met and your application is as strong as possible. We provide personalized advice and support to help you secure your RRV and protect your rights as an Australian permanent resident.
Stay Connected with Australia
Whether you’re traveling for work, visiting family, or exploring the world, a Resident Return Visa ensures that Australia remains your permanent home. Let us help you navigate the process and keep your connection to Australia strong.
Merit Reviews
Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be challenging, especially when decisions don’t go in your favor. That’s where merit and judicial reviews come into play. These legal processes allow you to challenge unfavorable decisions made by government bodies, ensuring that the decision-making process was fair, legal, and reasonable.
Merit Reviews
A merit review is an in-depth reassessment of a decision made by a government department or agency, such as the Department of Home Affairs in Australia. During this process, an independent body, like the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), examines all the facts, evidence, and laws relevant to your case. The goal is to determine whether the original decision was correct and if any errors were made in the application of the law.
Our Approach
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we understand how critical these reviews are to our clients’ futures. We approach each case with the utmost dedication, meticulously preparing and presenting arguments that are both compelling and legally sound. Our deep understanding of immigration law, combined with our commitment to our clients, drives us to pursue every possible avenue for a favorable outcome.
Working with the Best Barristers
To ensure the highest level of representation, we collaborate with some of the best barristers in the field. These legal experts bring unparalleled expertise and a wealth of experience to the table, particularly in the complex areas of merit and judicial reviews. Their deep knowledge of the law, strategic thinking, and courtroom advocacy are invaluable assets in achieving successful outcomes.
Our barristers work closely with our legal team to craft precise legal arguments and strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of your case is thoroughly examined and that the strongest possible case is presented on your behalf.
Why Choose Us?
Expertise: We specialize in immigration law and have a track record of success in handling merit and judicial reviews.
Collaboration with Top Barristers: Our strong relationships with leading barristers ensure that you receive the highest quality representation.
Client-Centered Approach: We work closely with you, keeping you informed and involved throughout the process, ensuring your case is handled with care and precision.
Your Path to Justice
If you’re facing an unfavorable immigration decision, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. With Maryam Migration Lawyers by your side, you’ll have access to expert legal representation and the support of top barristers, giving you the best chance at overturning the decision and securing your future.
Judicial Reviews
Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be challenging, especially when decisions don’t go in your favor. That’s where merit and judicial reviews come into play. These legal processes allow you to challenge unfavorable decisions made by government bodies, ensuring that the decision-making process was fair, legal, and reasonable.
Judicial Reviews
Judicial reviews are more focused on the legality of the decision rather than its merits. If you believe that a decision was made unlawfully, irrationally, or with procedural unfairness, a judicial review allows you to challenge it in a higher court. The court does not re-assess the evidence but examines whether the law was correctly applied and whether the decision-making process was fair and legal.
Our Approach
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we understand how critical these reviews are to our clients’ futures. We approach each case with the utmost dedication, meticulously preparing and presenting arguments that are both compelling and legally sound. Our deep understanding of immigration law, combined with our commitment to our clients, drives us to pursue every possible avenue for a favorable outcome.
Working with the Best Barristers
To ensure the highest level of representation, we collaborate with some of the best barristers in the field. These legal experts bring unparalleled expertise and a wealth of experience to the table, particularly in the complex areas of merit and judicial reviews. Their deep knowledge of the law, strategic thinking, and courtroom advocacy are invaluable assets in achieving successful outcomes.
Our barristers work closely with our legal team to craft precise legal arguments and strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of your case is thoroughly examined and that the strongest possible case is presented on your behalf.
Why Choose Us?
Expertise: We specialize in immigration law and have a track record of success in handling merit and judicial reviews.
Collaboration with Top Barristers: Our strong relationships with leading barristers ensure that you receive the highest quality representation.
Client-Centered Approach: We work closely with you, keeping you informed and involved throughout the process, ensuring your case is handled with care and precision.
Your Path to Justice
If you’re facing an unfavorable immigration decision, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. With Maryam Migration Lawyers by your side, you’ll have access to expert legal representation and the support of top barristers, giving you the best chance at overturning the decision and securing your future.